Review: Samsung JS8500 Series Curved SUHD 4K Smart TV

Guest blog by Becky.

Looking for a TV that will take you right into the middle of the action of your favourite film? A TV that will make you forget you are sitting in your own living room? Then the Samsung JS8500 is the TV for you!

The Samsung JS8500 features a premium SUHD Curved panel with Nano Crystal Technology. This technology emits radiant light to create spectacular colours and deep blacks which brings the picture to life. The automatic depth enhancer will give incredible detail, while making your picture appear more natural. The TV also supports HDR (high dynamic range) streaming, which gives better contrast between the lightest and darkest parts of the screen. The Samsung JS8500 does have 4K up-scaling, so HD channels will look even better. Samsung TV’s are the only TV on the market to support all the codex of 4K, so there will be no limitation on what content you can watch – now or in the future!

js8500-1The Samsung Tizen Platform is a simple, Smart Hub that allows quick access to all the programmes you want to catch up on, via BBC iPlayer, ITV Player, 4OD and Demand Five. Searching for content is a breeze with instant search. There is also some good news for viewing UHD content too, as the Samsung JS8500 allows access to apps such as Netflix and Amazon Instant and choice of programmes is increasing all the time. The Tizen platform also syncs with other devices using Wi-Fi Direct. You can share content from a mobile device to a TV and vice versa with just one click; very handy if you have guests around to show off your latest holiday snaps and videos! The JS8500 will automatically search for any nearby Samsung mobile devices and can connect to them also.

js8500-2If you do use devices that need HDMI or digital audio outputs, the Samsung JS8500 is shipped with a very handy external box called a One Connect Mini. This little device houses 4 HDMI ports, 2 USB ports and a digital audio output. So, instead of awkwardly stretching behind the TV, you can just reach for the One Connect Mini, plug in the new device, all without breaking a sweat!

There are a few other ports on the side of the TV such as Freeview HD and satellite tuners, USB 3.0, LAN and component. To make life even simpler, there is also a dedicated slot for the One Connect Mini.

The Js8500 has 10w speakers with a pair of 10w subwoofers that offers clear sound with very little distortion. It is good for everyday listening, but personally, if you are looking at buying a TV of this quality or for that cinema experience, you will want to look at getting one of the Samsung soundbar that compliments the smooth curves of the JS8500. We currently have a package deal available on the 48” model with a curved soundbar, allowing you to save £100 when you buy both together. You can even add rear speakers for that added excitement, bringing the cinematic feel to your own home!

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The JS8500 comes with two remotes, a typical looking black Samsung Remote and the new Silver Smart remote. The Smart remote has navigation buttons and a pointer which is optimised for the Tizen Smart Platform. There is also a built-in microphone for voice commands. The remote does allow basic function changes such as channel change and volume adjustment.

Is the Samsung JS8500 the right TV for me? In short, yes. The JS8500 looks fantastic with its gentle curved screen and complimenting stand. The curve gives depth to movies and programmes that really immerses you in the action. The JS8500 has good connectivity with the One Connect Mini, with the 4 HDMI ports that are plentiful for all devices you may already have, while keeping your cables tidy. I would suggest going for one of Samsung’s 4K Blu-ray players to give you the best quality and a soundbar for that cinema experience. The JS8500 is also brilliant for people with a busy schedule, with access to BBC iPlayer, ITV Player and other catch-up services, including Amazon Instant and Netflix in UHD quality. Even if you are more of the evening only TV watcher, you will never be stuck for something to watch – in dazzling definition.

Visit your local store and ask about a demo and to see the JS8500 in action, there is even a choice of sizes from 48” or find out more about how you can rent or buy online.